More prompting was necessary. Cupid must be brought up to the mark. The manager had put him down in the bill for the part, and he must play it.

“Sophronia, my dear,” said Mr. Lammle, “I don’t like the colour of your dress.”

“I appeal,” said Mrs. Lammle, “to Mr. Fledgeby.”

“And I,” said Mr. Lammle, “to Georgiana.”

“Georgy, my love,” remarked Mrs. Lammle aside to her dear girl, “I rely upon you not to go over to the opposition. Now, Mr. Fledgeby.”